However I really like the design and the quality of light from those so my suggestion is the Original Westcott Apollo.That one also has fiberglass rods but I hope they are more durable than the Chinese copies.

I <3 the Westcott Apollo. It's definitely my favorite flash modifier... ever! Such even, soft and beautiful light. Definitely my go-to for mobile shoots where light-weight is a priority, and the monolights need to stay at home.

Just don't forget the good ol' Offset Arm from Paul Buff to make the most of your softbox. Check the nerd-video I just made for details:

I use the Rogue gel kit system and it works fine for weddings. However, as Syl Arena has mentioned, the Honl system allows for a faster change of gels if time is a factor (setting sun). If I buy more, next time I'm trying the Honl system.

Looking for opinions into the Honl vs Rogue gel kit systems. Pros/Cons of one over the other. Any feedback would be appreciated! Haven't invested in either system yet.

Also, I am wondering if anybody here with a 600EX-RT actually uses the included gel holder? I know that if you use the official Canon-cut CTO that the speedlite will supposedly auto-detect its existence and modify the flash exposure. What happens if you cut your own gel and stick it into the holder? Anyway, I'm just wondering if anybody actually uses the Canon gel holder for real shoots or if it's just a gimmick.

Thanks for the info. We have a local drag strip near me in Cincinnati, Ohio, USA. Oh how I wish it had a "bridge" overlooking the drag strip like the one in your photo. Very unique perspective, especially for drag racing.

The miniature effect look works best with an overhead shot. In this case I am standing on a bridge over the drag strip. A platform that was damned hard to get up onto, and was kind of a boring place to shoot from.

I have the 300 2.8 II and I love this lens. I was in your dilemma awhile back a chose the lens over the 1dx. I still want the 1dx but I've been able to get by without it for the time being. Since you have the 5d mk III, 7d and both teleconverters, I think you would get more benefit from the 300 2.8. If you got the lens, you could run two bodies--one with the 300 (and a 1.4x converter) and one with the 70 - 200. This is a great set-up for shooting sports. Can't get into Candlestick with this set of kit? Join the club. You can't start at the top, shoot local sports with this very profession level gear. Sell the 300 f4 and the 100 - 400.

I have been using a Canon 350D (apparently Rebel XT/Kiss for those in the US)....for years and is perfectly still fine to use, but today finally put a bend in the bank plastic and jumped to the 5D MKIII...

I'm like a kid waiting for christmas but also knowing the cost just laid out for what effectively is a hobby and not a money earner...

This is the bracket I use. It is very versatile and gets the flash higher in relationship to the lens. I will always try to bounce first. If I can't then I pullout the bracket and shoot direct. I also will also crank up the ISO. A very solid product.

Thanks for the reply. I just ordered it and look forward to trying it out.